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More than 90 people attended the carnival-like event that featured cotton candy, sno-cones, hot dogs, and activities like gunny sack races and hoola hoop competitions.

“We wanted to make people aware of the need for foster parents, thank our current foster parent homes and have a fun, free and family-centered event,” said Tina Gastineau, Resource Development Supervisor, North Platte.

CFS staff collaborated with the Nebraska Foster and Adoptive Parent Association, St. Francis Hospital, Right Turn and Project Everlast to host the event.

Elaina Davis, daughter of Laura Davis, Resource Developer, North Platte, plays with a dog at the Foster a Future event.

The Nebraska Clean Indoor Air Act Celebrates Five Years

Nebraska is one of 16 states with 100 percent smoke-free laws in all non-hospitality workplaces, restaurants, bars and gambling venues.

“Being smoke free is something we often take for granted in Nebraska these days,” said Judy Martin, Deputy Director of DHHS’ Community and Environmental Health, “Visiting another state is often a stark reminder of how wonderful it is for all indoor workplaces and indoor public places to be smoke-free."

For more information about the law and Nebraska’s successful transition to clean indoor air, visit SmokeFree.ne.gov.

DHHS Promotes World Elder Abuse Awareness

One in 10 Americans is a victim of elder abuse, neglect or exploitation and only one in 14 cases is reported to authorities.

“That’s why it’s so important for Nebraskans to learn how to recognize and report elder abuse and neglect. It’s everyone’s responsibility,” said Thomas Pristow, director of DHHS’ Division of Children and Family Services.

To learn more about the signs of elder abuse and neglect, visit DHHS’ Adult Protective Services website. If abuse is suspected, call the Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-652-1999. Callers can remain anonymous.

Jodi Osborn, of Lincoln, holds a photo of her mother, who was the victim of elder abuse and was murdered a year ago. Obsorn wants to help other families recognize the signs of abuse.

Connections is a monthly online newsletter featuring articles on DHHS programs and services, and employees who have been recognized for their accomplishments in and outside of the workplace.

The newsletter also features letters of appreciation submitted by DHHS clients or partners and a monthly column by DHHS CEO Kerry Winterer.

You can subscribe to receive Connections by email here and also access the current issue and past issues.

Public Health Issues Health Alerts on Nebraska Lakes

DHHS’ Public Health Division works with the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality (NDEQ), Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Water Quality Extension Program to send out health alerts on public lakes during the summer.

NDEQ does sampling for toxic algae and bacteria at 50 public lakes weekly. If a lake is determined to have unsafe levels of toxic algae or bacteria, the agencies issue a health alert.

A lake must go two consecutive weeks with readings below the established threshold for toxic algae and bacteria before the alert is lifted. While the health alert is in effect, designated swimming beaches are closed and signs are posted warning people to use caution.

Public lake sampling results and health alerts are updated and posted on NDEQ’s website every Friday.

From May 28 to 31 a “Pony Express” made up of volunteer motorcyclists traveled across the state collecting hundreds of letters about children’s mental health.

The volunteers started their journey in Gering and traveled east across the state collecting letters about children’s mental health. On May 31, they delivered the letters to the State Capitol in Lincoln.

“Children’s mental health is important to their success in life,” said Scot L. Adams, director of DHHS’ Division of Behavioral Health. “This ride shows support for increasing their mental well-being.”

Volunteer motorcyclists park in front of the State Capitol before they deliver letters about children's mental health on May 31.